From Our Pastor

An Invitation to Stewardship Renewal

This is an invitation to take time to recall God’s gifts to you. It is something we should do often. It is especially important to do so as our parish enters our annual period of Stewardship Renewal. Together as a community and individually we review our Stewardship of God’s Graces by reflecting on our commitment to God and to our parish. We allow ourselves the opportunity to grow in love and service to the Lord by adopting an “attitude of gratitude.” I truly appreciate the prayer and time you devote to this process.

We do well to follow the Apostle Peter’s preaching to the first Christians, when he says “As each one has received a gift, use it to serve one another as good stewards of God’s varied grace” (1Pt 4:10). Our support of the Christian Community, when made as a response to God’s gifts to us, makes a difference in how we experience life from day to day. Gifts of our Time, Talent, and Treasure define our true priorities, strengthen our relationship with God, support the mission of Christ and his Church, and help our brothers and sisters in need.

Stewardship of Our Time

What amount of time have you been spending on your spiritual growth? Is God inviting you to begin a new practice or increase the amount of time you spend at spiritual reading, study, prayer, and worship so that you might become a better disciple of Jesus?

Stewardship of Our Talent

In what ways have you been sharing your God-given talents with your community and in service to others? Is it time to retire from one area of ministry so that you can begin another?

Stewardship of Our Treasure

It isn’t always easy to discern what amount of our treasure God is calling us to give. Many people use the biblical concept of the tithe (10% of their income) as a guide, giving 5% to their parish and another 5% to other charities. If you have not tithed before, how about setting 5% as a goal you can work toward over the next few years, taking an annual step toward full tithing by adding a percentage point to your pledge each year.

I ask you to make a commitment in each of these three areas – time, talent, treasure – because I truly believe that your pledge will increase your happiness and help you grow closer to the Lord. I know many of our parishioners have found great joy and satisfaction in striving to increase their giving and involvement in the life of Holy Disciples. I invite you to join us.

Please take some time to reflect on how Holy Disciples has been a blessing for you. Then, make a prayerful decision about what you are able to pledge to your parish this year.

In thanksgiving for all God's blessings to us,
and for the generosity of your response,